
All image AI generated by Nakia Reine
If you’re anything like me, your social media feed is a whirlwind of DIY skincare hacks, influencer recommendations, and the latest beauty product launches. As a skincare enthusiast, I find myself both fascinated and overwhelmed by the constant stream of advice from dermatologists and influencers alike. Recently, this obsession hit close to home when my tween daughter, affectionately known as Doll, asked me for her own skincare routine.
Her request made me smile, remembering my own teenage years when I yearned for the pink Olay moisturizer. I’d watch my grandmother apply it with such ritualistic grace – a tiny dollop massaged into her hands, then gently smoothed onto her face in an upward motion. It was a nightly ceremony that seemed both mystic and comforting. I wanted to be part of that ritual, so I asked my mom for my own jar. Her response? A firm no, and to this day, I laugh about it. My mom, in her wisdom, spared my youthful skin from unnecessary products.
Fast forward to today, and Doll’s reasons for wanting a skincare routine were not just nostalgia but influenced by what she sees online – the allure of cute products and the desire to emulate the beauty routines of influencers. Naturally, I said no and explained that she’d need to wait. At this point, I was deeply involved in the skincare space, collaborating with dermae, a brand I admire for its natural ingredients. I reached out to them, only to learn that their products weren’t suitable for tweens, which was something I respected.

All image AI generated by Nakia Reine
Determined to find the right path for Doll, I dove into research on tween skincare. This journey led me to discover three brands that became the foundation of my passion project, “Lather.” Through consultations with respected brands and dermatologists, I learned that tweens don’t need an elaborate regimen. For children under 13, the essentials are a simple moisturizer, a mild cleanser, and sunscreen. At 13, Doll transitioned to using products from Bubble, which offers a straightforward approach with ingredients that I trust. Her routine now includes a moisturizer, cleanser, and sunscreen – all designed for her age.
Here’s where marketing comes into play. We’ve all been influenced for years, whether by our immediate environment or through various media channels. While social media has amplified this influence, the need for careful consideration before adopting trends remains crucial. For our kids, it’s our responsibility to research and ask the right questions before jumping on the latest bandwagon.
So, I’m curious – when did you start using skincare products? I began at 14, with my first product being Clearasil, not Olay. Share your skincare journey and experiences in the comments below!
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